A Science Project on Magnetic Cars

Toy cars can be modified to create magnetically-propelled cars.
••• toy car image by ann triling from Fotolia.com

Magnetic toy car experiments can make a big impact at school science fairs. While fairly easy to execute, magnetic car experiments are a fun way to teach children about magnetism.

Features

Magnetic car experiments feature a car and three magnets. Two magnets are strapped to the car and a third magnet is held by the car “operator” and used to “drive” the toy car.

Function

The magnetic car works by using the repelling power of magnets. One magnet’s north pole is placed at the back of the toy car, and the other magnet’s south pole is attached at the front of the car. The third “control” magnet pushes the car forward by repelling the poles of the magnets attached to the car.

Fun Fact

Maglev levitating trains work on a similar principle as this simple science project. These high-speed trains are used for transportation in cities all over the world.

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